Lungi puts Sri Lankan flavours on the global map with back-to-back Michelin honours

New York City – Sri Lanka’s culinary identity has reached a proud global milestone as Lungi, the South Indian–Sri Lankan restaurant on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, secures the 2025 Michelin Bib Gourmand Award, following its first win in 2024. This recognition makes Lungi the first Sri Lankan restaurant in New York to earn back-to-back Bib Gourmand honours. Owned by restaurateur Mervyn Winston and led by Chef Albin Vincent, Lungi has rapidly become a landmark for authentic South Asian flavours. Known for bold spices, soulful curries, and heartfelt hospitality, the restaurant mirrors the warmth of kitchens across Sri Lanka and South India. Chef Albin, originally from Kanyakumari with deep cultural and familial ties to Sri Lanka, brings inspiration from his grandmother’s kitchen to craft a seamless blend of regional traditions.

The culinary team further elevates Lungi’s identity. It includes Chef Vasantha Kumar from Tamil Nadu, Sous Chef Andrew Simethy from Kerala, and Chef Thirunavukkarasu, known for his dosa expertise at Taj Coromandel. Adding immense value is Chef Rushdhun Ramzy, a distinguished culinary authority from Sri Lanka, who brings his signature touch of innovative fusion between classic Sri Lankan tastes and contemporary cooking techniques, elevating every dish into a culinary journey. One of the restaurant’s most meaningful creations is the “Pearl Diver” cocktail — a tribute to Chef Albin’s grandfather, a Sri Lankan diver who lost his life at sea. It honours the island’s maritime heritage and the family story behind Lungi’s rise. Since opening in late 2024, Lungi has attracted locals and tourists alike, with Michelin inspectors recognising its food and value. Signatures such as the Banana Leaf Special Meal, Cauliflower 65, and Mutton Rolls highlight flavours from Jaffna, Kanyakumari, and the South Asian coastal belt. Beyond its Michelin wins, Lungi continues to earn praise from media and food writers, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s growing presence on the global culinary stage.